OSM Importer

Introduction

Are you looking to bring real-world data into your Autodesk® Revit® projects? Look no further than OSM Importer, a powerful plugin that allows you to import OpenStreetMap 3D map data directly into Revit. By utilizing elevation data from Geographical Survey Institute maps and ASTER datasets, OSM Importer provides you with accurate and detailed geographic features to enhance your designs. In this review, we will explore the key features and benefits of this innovative tool and how it can revolutionize your workflow.

Key Features

OSM Importer leverages OpenStreetMap data, which consists of coordinates (Nodes), model elements (Ways), and relationships between models (Relations). Nodes represent specific points on the ground, while Ways represent line segments composed of multiple Nodes. Closed Ways can represent area boundaries, with 3D models like buildings also being represented by adding height information to the area. The plugin acquires and models Ways with Tags for buildings, roads, railroads, bodies of water, and bridges, providing a comprehensive dataset for your architectural projects.

Building Models

For building models, OSM Importer identifies each building (Way tagged with Building). You have the option to generate buildings as in-place masses or as DirectShapes in either the Mass or General Model category. Height information is used when available, with an estimated height of 3 meters per story for buildings without specified heights. This feature streamlines the modeling process and ensures accuracy in depicting various building types within your designs.

Road and Railroad Models

The plugin also models roads (Ways with Highway tag) and railroads (Railway-tagged Ways) according to OpenStreetMap data. For roads, you can choose to generate them as in-place masses or as subcompartments of a terrain solid. Similarly, railroads can be modeled as DirectShapes in the Mass category or as subcompartments of a terrain solid. This flexibility allows you to create realistic road and railroad layouts in your Revit projects effortlessly.

Water and Bridge Models

Water bodies such as rivers and lakes (Ways with Water tag) and bridges (Ways with Bridge tag) can also be modeled using OSM Importer. Water bodies can be left unmodeled or represented as subsections of the terrain solid, depending on your preference. Bridges are modeled in a similar fashion, with the option to generate them as in-place masses or as subsections of the terrain solid. These features add depth and realism to your architectural designs, incorporating natural elements seamlessly.

Conclusion

Overall, OSM Importer is a must-have tool for architects and designers seeking to integrate real-world data into their Autodesk® Revit® projects. With its ability to import OpenStreetMap 3D map data accurately and efficiently, this plugin opens up a world of possibilities for creating detailed and realistic architectural models. Whether you are working on urban planning projects, landscape designs, or interior layouts, OSM Importer can streamline your workflow and enhance the quality of your work. Give it a try and experience the benefits of incorporating real-world data into your Revit projects with ease.